2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 400 kg more than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Jeep Wrangler. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 2003 Jeep Wrangler will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2003 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 72 L |
